Meet Our Team
Community Leadership for an Impact
We are a dedicated group of individuals committed to driving positive change from the ground up. Our collective passion for community engagement and sustainable development inspires us to work tirelessly for the betterment of society. Here’s a closer look at our team members:
Nuestras Raices Board
Jennifer Vigil
NRCC Board President
Jennifer was born and raised in the Inland Northwest, and moved back to Spokane during COVID, after living in the Puget Sound region. With a , robust, 28-year background in Healthcare Administration, Operations and Executive Leadership, Jennifer’s experience spans the full spectrum, from Primary Care, to Specialty Services, Surgery, Cosmetics, Native American Health, and Public Health in Federally Qualified Health Centers. Prior to moving back to Spokane, Jennifer served in a leadership role at Sea Mar Community Health Centers, serving the operations of 26 clinics across Western Washington, and managing grants which served Migrant Farm Workers and Seasonal Workers’ families. Her work in this arena was published nationally, with UnidosUS for the years she led this program. Currently working in the Center for Health Equity and Wellness for MultiCare Health Systems, Jennifer’s work spans 12 hospitals and related services across Washington State.
In addition to her work in both the public and private sectors, Jennifer is the mother of two fine young gentlemen. She is the President/CEO of Son Dulce Live Salsa, a twelve-piece traditional salsa band which has been performing throughout the Northwest, headlining public events, and raising money for scholarships, and fundraisers for over 18 years. Outside of work, you will find her doing interval training on one of the area’s numerous nature trails.
Gabriela Jablonski
NRCC Vice President
I am originally from Texas and I work in the Spokane area as a Nurse RN. I have almost 20 years of experience in this field and it was in this capacity that I started HBPA Nuestras Raizes with COVID vaccines. I have two daughters in college In my free time I take flamenco classes and I like to run and cook new recipes I am delighted to serve on the Board of Nuestras Raíces.
Manuel Arroyo
NRCC Board Treasurer
Manuel Arroyo, widely recognized in the community as "Manny," is a distinguished individual known for his professionalism and contributions. Manuel was born in Sinaloa, Mexico, and raised in a small town in Washington. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in professional accounting from Eastern Washington University. Manuel has a wide variety of work experience in his current role as an Assurance Senior at the CPA firm Moss Adams.
He has a profound commitment to helping the youth and the Hispanic-Latino community, which is reflected in his actions, dedication to the community, mentorship, and commitment to volunteering at community events.
He understands the importance of fostering a strong, supportive community and tirelessly works to bring people together. His resilience through financial insecurity, language barriers, and cultural differences has paved his path to his journey as a professional.
Manuel possesses a diverse set of skills that are essential for success in his new role as a Board Treasurer at Nuestras Raices.
Nuestras Raices Staff
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Fernanda Mazcot
Nuestras Raices Executive Director
I graduated from Whitworth University Social Services in 2014. In 2009, I received a Social Work certificate degree from Arizona State School.
I oversee management and leadership of the organization. We are a community center that provides services in different areas that improve social determines of health to provide a positive impact on individuals’ overall health. I have over 15 years of experience working in non-profit sectors and over 10 years in mental health services. I am crafty and enjoy paper crafting, coloring pages, and DIY projects. I enjoy coloring and spending time with my family.
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Isabel Mazcot
de Torres
Director of Operations & Spokane Site Manager
My name is Isabel Mazcot, and I was born in Mexico. I have a degree in human services and extensive experience in finance. My role at Nuestras Raíces consists of supporting program managers in implementing our services in the best way possible for the community's well-being. I’m a wife and mother of three who enjoys traveling, as it gives me a different perspective of cultures and communities.
Jennifer Contreras
Development Manager
Jennifer Guadalupe Contreras Lucatero is an alumni from Eastern Washington University with a bachelors in Spanish and Women studies. Jen is originally from Colima, Mexico and aspires to guide the Latinx community through her community organizing skills and testimonial experience as an immigrant and a first generational college student. In her free time Jen likes to be outside enjoying the PNW, traveling, and playing her guitar. You might catch her per playing at some of our events or around Spokane.
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Brianda Lizeth Perez, BCOM
Public Relations and Marketing Outreach
I graduated from Washington State University in 2021, with a double major in Multimedia Journalism and Public Relations from Edward R. Murrow College of Communication. I worked for a local TV station as a bilingual digital producer, which helped her to realize the need for bilingual information and resources in the Inland Northwest. My role in NRCC involves taking care of its social media and PR and the behind-the-scenes work, events and images, which I enjoy doing. I was raised in Michoacán, Mexico, and I am proud to be a first-generation student. In my free time, I like visiting local stores and places in Spokane and North Idaho and thrifting.
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Cynthia Jara Arroyo MSW
LICSWA Clinical Director
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker Associate (SC 61519903) licensed in the state of Washington. I attended Eastern Washington University where I was able to receive my Master of Social Work in 2022 and Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology in 2016.
I am Bilingual, Español & English and can provide therapy and case management in both languages. Part of my work involves connecting individuals and families with resources in the community, helping them navigate various systems, and ensuring basic needs have been met. I am passionate about working with adults and providing a safe space for them to share their stories and help to destigmatize mental health.
As a therapist, I have experience with therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other Mindfulness techniques. I specialize in areas including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, attachment, self-esteem, and domestic violence.
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Jose Alvarez, MSW, LICSWA
Esperanza Social Services & Mental Health
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker Associate (SC 61211109) licensed in the state of Washington. I received my Master of Social Work in 2021 from Eastern Washington University. Prior to this, I received my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work in 2019 from Eastern Washington University. I am Bilingual, in both Español & English.
As a case manager and therapist, I am a catalyst, educator and problem solver for those who are experiencing barriers. I am passionate about working with individuals ages 4-adult and families. As a therapist I have experience with therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Child Direct Play, and other Mindfulness techniques. I specialize in areas including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, stress management, abandonment, self-esteem, PTSD and ADHD. I view each individual as a whole and work with them to develop the most appropriate plan.
​Li Velasco
LUNAA Program Manager
They work with students and young professionals on finding scholarships, fellowships, and working on their leadership skills. Li also works as part of Alianza in attempts to support the understanding of gender and sexuality by doing workshops in Spanish for families that want to be supportive. Li has their Bachelors of Arts from Eastern Washington University and their Master of Arts from Indiana University. In their free time, they love to crochet, hang out with their dogs, listen to music, and spend time with their family.
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Ana
Family Connections Supervisor & Case Manager
My role is to welcome people who come to our center and make our resources and mission known to the community. Our department provides housing security, food, a clothing bank, cultural events for children and families, and connects families with schools.
I am very passionate about working with the Hispanic community and achieving the common good together and that people who come in search of resources and cultural events feel a little piece of home and feel proud of their roots in our center.
In my free time, I enjoy walking outdoors, riding my bike, seat in the forest, watching the view and drinking mate. Another thing I love is watching soccer, especially Union FC games.
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Nay
NRCC Housing Advocate
I help people with their housing needs as well as social services such as food stamps or other state benefits they may qualify for. Something I am passionate about is helping people and that is what drives me into what I do which makes me look forward to coming in every morning. Outside of work, I enjoy going on small road trips or travelling whenever I can to different states because I want to go to all of them and meet lots of new people. Something I really enjoy doing in Spokane, specifically in the summer, is going longboarding with my friend either at the riverfront park, in Kendal Yards, or at random parking lots with hills. I also love going to the lakes when the water is not freezing and swimming or paddleboarding. When it’s cold, I enjoy getting warm drinks like hot apple cider at any coffee shop and going thrifting or just walking around downtown with my little drink.
Lucia Aguirre Figueroa
BSW, Community and Family Engagement Coordinator
I am the Community and Family Engagement Coordinator at Nuestras Raices. I am also a Notary Public. I completed my bachelor's in social work at Eastern Washington University in 2022. My work involves coordinating and executing cultural events, workshops and support groups, for our community as well as supporting our food and clothing bank, Cosechando Esperanza. Additionally, I provide health insurance enrollment as a health navigator. I am deeply committed to bridging the gap between social services/ resources and our latin@ community, particularly those without immigration status. On my days off, I enjoy hanging out with friends, family, my puppy Luna and cat Moon Moon.
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Kimberly Castañeda Marin
BSW Case Manager
I am a case manager for the Esperanza Program in Nuestras Raíces. I graduated from Eastern Washington University in June of 2024 with a bachelor’s in social work and a minor in Spanish. I am now pursuing a master’s degree in social work and will be graduating in the Spring of 2025. As a case manager, I focus on assessing and planning cases, connecting to resources, helping to navigate the systems, and overall setting approaches to help individuals and families achieve their goals. My passions are providing support to the community, helping meet basic and complex needs, and advocating for social justice. On my free days, I enjoy discovering new locations, spending time with family and friends, and watching movies.
Alexis Gallegos
BSW, Youth Coordinator
Alexis Gallegos Salas works as the Youth Coordinator at Nuestras Raíces. His work primarily focuses on connecting students and young professionals with well-suited mentors, to promote a successful future. Alexis is originally from Aguascalientes, México and is the son of immigrant parents. He is also a current DACA recipient and has experience navigating through the educational system as a DACAmented student. When he’s not helping uplift nuestra raza, Alexis is playing soccer, listening to music, or watching movies with his partner, their cat Moonmoon and puppy Luna.
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Kristina Smith
Medically Disability Complex Parent Caregiver Life Coach
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Celeste Bravo
Cosechando Esperanza Coordinator & Ballet Folklorico Administrator
I’m the Cosechando Esperanza Coordinator and Folklorico Administrator at Nuestras Raíces, where I also assist in the Medically Complex Caregiver Community Program. I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Gonzaga University in 2024. My role involves organizing our food bank for clients, scheduling appointments for those in need of our services, assisting with events, and also advocating and connecting individuals with essential resources and support in the medically complex caregiver community. Additionally, I oversee, teach, and perform in our Ballet Folklorico, a role I’m incredibly passionate about! In my free time, I love spending time with my family and dogs, exploring new restaurants, and, of course, dancing!
Natalie Barton
Cultural Ambassador in Education and UNION Coach
I attended Eastern Washington University, graduating with both a BS in Biology and a BA in Education in spring of 2024. Now, I work with our family engagement programs, specifically doing a lot of work with Union FC, our free soccer program. Additionally, I work directly with Innovia Foundation, participating alongside other community leaders and Spokane Public School’s Cultural/Engagement Navigators in their Engage IRL programs.
The hobbies I enjoy are reading as well as watching movies. When I have a day off, I enjoy spending it doing things with my friends or family. I also love working with our Union players, making coaching one of my weekly highlights. Most of my professional training is a mix between science, specifically biology, as well as education. My education experience helps me to understand what kids need as students, and my community work helps me to understand what they need as kids or families.
Francisco Gutierrez
Exito - Certified Financial Advisor
My professional background includes a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from Eastern Washington University, Fiduciary investment licenses, honorably served in the US Army, and small business ownership. I specialize in personal finance and individualized coaching to help clients accomplish their financial goals through budgeting, investing, and goal-setting. These things weren’t taught to us growing and I hope to change the stigma surrounding finances. When I’m not working with clients, my time is spent with my wife and son exploring the world. I’m a sucker for a good carnitas taco too!
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Ethan Pena
Manager of Economic Development
I am the Director of Education at Nuestras Raices Centro Comunitario. I graduated with my Master of Arts, concentrating in Gender and Sexuality research, from Indiana University in 2020. I currently support students and families as they navigate the education system and access financial aid. I also support our Hispanic and Latine LGBTQ+ community. I am deeply passionate about working with students and I am committed to understanding and addressing the unique intersectionality’s within the communities we serve. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching movies, and exploring local bookstores.
Stacey Gutierrez
Business Logo Marketing Consultant
I am a local to Washington State, born and raised. My undergraduate education covered a few disciplines, including community health and accounting. I currently work for a local software company as a Project Coordinator/Scrum Master. My husband Francisco and I also own and operate a landscaping business. Through both personal and professional roles, I discovered a passion for graphic design. I am eager to help with logo and business card designs for our community members. In our free time, my husband and I enjoy taking our son Royal outdoors to explore all there is to discover.
Yajaira Valentinez
Exito Business Advisor
Originally from Yakima, Washington, I ventured to Spokane to pursue a degree in Business Administration, as well as a Minor in Hogan Entrepreneurship and Leadership and Computer Science at Gonzaga University. I am committed to leveraging my education and experience to provide comprehensive support to small businesses, and to help entrepreneurs thrive in today's ever-changing economy. My goal is to empower individuals to build successful and sustainable businesses that will not only benefit themselves but also their communities.
Vivianna Macias-Katzenstein
Exito Business Advisor
I graduated from Norquest College in Alberta, Canada, as a Community Support Worker with HONORS in Native/Indigenous Studies, I was also certified by Norquest College by their Service Industry Skills Hospitality Program. My role at Nuestras Raices is a Business Advisor. My passions are providing value to my clients through the different skills and roles that I perform in my community. My passions are singing and baking. I enjoy Ice Skating in Spokane. I have the specialty of Baking Sweets. I enjoy being around people and doing community service at my church
Pedro Hernandez
IT and Web Specialist
I graduated From Eastern Washington University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Computer Science degree. My job here at Nuestras Raices is making sure things run smoothly here on the technical side and I also design various types of websites for Nuestras Raices’ business clients. I am very passionate when it comes to tech and helping these local businesses reach farther through the web. What I enjoy doing in Spokane is going to our city’s local independent movie theaters and going to stores to search for vinyl records. I also provide freelance work and like practicing my coding in my free time.
Noemí
L&I Advocate
I have an Associate of Arts degree from Columbia Basin College. I am currently studying Music Technology at Eastern Washington University, with minors in History and Political Science. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I will go to law school to become an immigration lawyer. My role at Nuestras Raíces is to educate our community about their worker rights and support them through the process of filing an L&I claim. Some of my hobbies include writing lyrics, creative makeup, tennis and painting. The things I love doing the most include singing, dreaming, reading—particularly Queer literature and spending time with my family.
Nicole Ruiz
Filed Organizer Advocacy
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Nuestras Raices Staff
Maria Martinez
Othello Site Manager Office
I’m very excited to be part of Nuestras Raices and serve the community of Othello. I was born in Calexico California. Was raised in Othello, WA. I received my bachelor's from CWU. I’m a Planning Commissioner for the City of Othello and one of Director of Othello Rotary Club.
My mom is from Jalisco and my father from TX. My grandfather came to the United States from Jalisco MX as a bracero and he applied for permanent residency for his family. My mom and my grandparents make me proud to call myself Chicana/Hispanic.
Sulema Martinez
Business Community Navigator - Éxito Program Othello office
I graduated from Othello High School in 2015. In my role, I help individuals apply/renew ITINs, explain expiration dates, and educate on using them for taxes and finances. I also assist with the Working Family Tax Credit and determine their eligibility. Additionally, I offer business consultation for new ventures or those seeking financial assistance for established businesses. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends, baking, and traveling with my son to explore new places and try new foods. I am passionate about my community, as I serve on the board of directors for the Othello Rotary Club, attending planning commission meetings, and volunteering at the Othello Food Bank as I am passionate about helping Othello’s residents in anyway I can.
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Israel Wright
L & I advocate, Othello Office
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Esmeralda Sandoval Lujan
Resource Navigator/Case Manager, Othello Office
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